The Return Of The Santa Fe Super Chief by Douglas Folsom is a unique, fascinating story with mystical undertones. The story is narrated in a fun, inventive way and begins with an introduction to Roger Storm. Roger Storm is a man living in Los Angeles who, on the surface, has everything: a career, success, love. Roger works as an executive and is engaged to a beautiful woman named Brook. However, all is not as it seems and he is unhappy at times without knowing why. We also learn about Roger’s family background, about his parents’ divorce, and the fact that his father used to work with trains. Roger’s life takes a dramatic turn when he is offered a unique opportunity to revive and restore the historic luxury train, the Santa Fe Super Chief, for one more run between Los Angeles and Chicago. Roger accepts, and what happens next as he accepts, makes all of the arrangements, and sets off on his journey is a superb mix of a murder mystery, romance, the supernatural, and mysticism.

The Return Of The Santa Fe Super Chief by Douglas Folsom is a delightful book and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It was great to see all of the old historic photos from the bygone era of railroads and passenger trains, and learn a bit about what life must have been like during those times. The central character of Roger Storm is superbly drawn and I found it easy to empathize with him. I also enjoyed the element of mysticism that pervades the book, making one pause and reflect on life in general. This is a wonderful read overall, one that is fun and meaningful at the same time.

The Return of the Santa Fe Super Chief by Douglas Folsom is a tale extraordinaire. “There is more to the world than meets the eye.” An “aha” moment, an epiphany or illusion? Regardless of your definition of the event, Roger Storm has a rare encounter with a mysterious man. Roger is a top executive for a major airline. He is engaged, wealthy, living in luxury, speeding through life in a time warp. But, he is miserable - life had taken its toll. Mr. Chapman, the mystery man, tells Roger to “bring back the Super Chief for one trip from Chicago to Los Angeles.” A ridiculous command? Or a life changing event? Surrendering to the call, Roger hopes “this train ride is a long day’s journey into the light,” not the night. Roger invests his heart, soul and money into this endeavor. This proves not to be just another train ride. It is a reconciliation of relationships, the realization of dreams, a journey of self discovery.

Douglas Folsom brings back a piece of Americana in The Return of the Santa Fe Super Chief. There is a sense of awe held within its pages. The story is told using the omniscient point of view of a narrator. Answering their unspoken questions and hinting at things to come, the narrator speaks directly to his audience. This playwright technique is delightful, adding to the nostalgic mood of the story. The cast of characters is well rounded. Each character has their own individual story within the story. As a reader, you are bound to relate to one of them. Folsom creates a comforting narrative, with many threads of insightful truth woven into the plot. Although romantic and inspirational, this novel is a train enthusiast’s dream come true. Folsom knows his train history. The Return of the Santa Fe Super Chief reminds us to slow down, look beyond what is seen, and to “enjoy the journey” of life.